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Success by Design, 10 CEO Habits That Drive Profit
Presented by Kohler and Cambria
The NKBA Manhattan-NYC Chapter gathered on November 13th at the Kohler Store of New York / Best Plumbing Supply for an engaging discussion on CEO Habits that Drive Profit given by LuAnn Nigara, well known media personality. A few of those 10 suggestions: Prioritize the creation and documentation of systems and processes; Know your target market with absolute clarity; Embrace learning, coaching, and hiring people smarter than you; and, Strive for an exceptional client experience for every client. LuAnn followed each step with examples from real life situations - either from her own drapery workroom business or while coaching others towards more successful business outcomes. The audience was pleased to learn they had followed at least one of LuAnn's suggestions simply by attending the informative and lively presentation.
Jeannine Price, incoming NKBA Manhattan-NYC Chapter President; Setta Tavitian, Senior Sales Executive, Kohler Co; Tierra Porter, Showroom Manager, Kohler Store; Ellen Lopez, EL Designs and event chair and LuAnn Nigara, guest speaker, Success By Design.
LuAnn Nigara, dynamic guest speaker and podcast host of A Well-Designed Business®, the most downloaded podcast in the interior design industry, captured the attention of the audience with her 10 CEO Habits that Drive Profit.
Jamie Keel, Residential A&D Market Rep for event co-sponsor Cambria and NKBA chapter board member, talks shop with designer Michelle Jacobson of ML Jacobson Design, and also an instructor at New York School of Interior Design.
Kohler SpaViva, was one of the fabulous door prizes of the evening. The handshower includes interchangeable magnetic attachments to buff, scrub, cleanse, and massage. Word has it, the lucky winner went home, charged it up and massaged away a stiff neck, even before connecting it to a shower hose. One of the perks, you can use the spa unit separately too! To see how it works, click here orhere.
Holiday Highlights
By Joan Ravasy
A fabulous night of dining and dancing, celebrating holidays, friendships, and networking, all while cruising on the Spirit of NJ on the Hudson. A sit-down dinner, bountiful bar, and skyline of NYC backdrop added to the spectacular event.
We thank our sponsors, Sub Zero Wolf Cove, Runtal Radiators, Fabuwood, andThe Galley. A final Programs Meeting by Joan Ravasy, outgoing Director of Programs, brings the year to a close with a sold-out event circling Manhattan under a full moon.
Look for more about the festive evening in the next monthly newsletter!
A salute to our event sponsors that helped make all the planning a reality:
Stephanie Grimaldi Lang, Tara Pazinski, Joan Ravasy and Ellen Lopez dance up a storm on the Spirit of New Jersey.
Serene Darwish, Rex Aguirre, Molly Jarr, Ann Cohen, Barbara Haberman, Toni Sabatino, and Mark Rosenhaus enjoy fine dining and conversation.
Farewell 2025, Hello to What's Next
CJ thanked the board, volunteers, and sponsors at the Annual Board Dinner, this past August, at the impressive Lutron NYC Global Experience Center.
Welcome 2026
Another year ends, and we prepare to welcome 2026 with new beginnings. Even Times Square will have a new look with the Constellation Ball ready to drop on New Year’s Eve. And just like that iconic moment, our Council Board will have a fresh look, too. The Programs Committee is kicking off the year with a fantastic event on Thursday, January 15th. See the announcement poster in our newsletter and the invite arriving in your inbox.
Reflections On The Past Four Years Of Partnership And Progress
It is with great respect and honor that I conclude my two-year term on December 31st as President of the NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter. Serving during the chapter’s 25th anniversary year has been an extraordinary privilege. This is a meaningful milestone in the organization's history. I reflect, too, on my past four years, working with four different boards, committed council members, and dedicated volunteers. Together, we navigated the challenges of a post-pandemic environment and rebuilt this chapter into the flourishing, forward-moving organization it is today. The 2024–2025 recap video captures many moments of that determination, creativity, and momentum that have defined this chapter.
2025, A Year of Impact
In 2025, the chapter held 16 events, plus excursions, and Lunch & Learns. Our 4th Annual Education & Membership Day (EduDay)—now a signature event—continued our commitment to continuing education, professional development, and the strengthening of our community within the kitchen, bath, technology, and whole-home design industries.
Our events have continued to reinforce the chapter’s commitment to meaningful learning, industry collaboration, and the elevation of the value of NKBA membership:
This year alone, the chapter sent 140,000+ outbound emails with an average open rate of 50%+, which is 21% above the industry average, a 4% CTR (click-through rate), 3% above the industry average, and a 71% increase in net-new contacts.
Our social platforms have doubled and, in some cases, tripled in engagement, and our membership roster has experienced meaningful, sustained growth.
Do you remember? Take a look back at some of the people, places and events that the NKBA Manhattan-NYC Chapter experienced, reflected here in the 2024–2025 recap video.
These accomplishments were made possible by the volunteer board officers and committee chairs who have spearheaded remarkable initiatives. Yet every one of these initiatives was built on the foundation laid by the presidents and committee chairs who came before us. To them, we owe this chapter's enduring legacy. It is my sincere hope that our sponsors, supporters, and incoming administration will continue to nurture and expand the initiatives that have brought us so much success.
A Word About Leadership & Volunteerism
Leadership in a volunteer, nonprofit professional organization is challenging, with many moving parts and emotions. I’m reminded of NYC Mayor Ed Koch’s famous line: “If I’m making everyone happy, I’m not doing my job.” He reminds us that leadership isn’t about popularity but doing what’s right for the organization, even when unpopular. Good leaders accept blame, take less credit, and move forward knowing criticism often arrives regardless of intent.
But leadership is only part of the story. It is participation that sustains an organization like ours. The NKBA thrives because members offer time, talent, creativity, and perspective. The more you give, the more you receive in relationships, visibility, professional growth, and belonging. Our vibrant chapter depends on continued involvement from every corner of our industry. When members volunteer, they help preserve and enhance the organization's value for years to come.
With Gratitude And Purpose
As I pass the torch, I do so with profound gratitude and optimism. This chapter is strong, resilient, and full of possibilities. I hope that each of you continues to show up, participate, contribute, and challenge the status quo, because that is how NKBA Manhattan NYC will continue to thrive.
Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving you. It has truly been one of the most exceptional experiences of my professional life.
Onward, upward, and into a bright 2026.
Warmly,
Charlé-John
President, NKBA Manhattan-NYC Chapter
charle@cjcstrategists.com
A few of the past presidents shimmering in silver, celebrating the 25 years of the NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter. L to R: Julie Schuster,
Toni Sabatino, Charle-John, Ester Kloc, Mark Rosenhaus, and Kent Brasloff
Bloomingdale's or Macy*s?
John Risch, NY Showroom Marketing Manager,
Hӓfele America Co.
Photo, Jeff Siegel
By Maureen Klein
Macy*s. Why? Asked the interviewer of the prestigious Executive Training Program. “Because you have a parade and they don’t. And I hear the employees get to be in the parade.” WOW, I’ve never gotten that answer before! John was accepted, and was told later that it was that response that nailed it.
Speaking of nailing it, tell us about that time when you dumbfounded your shop teacher.
A trivet or bookshelf were the project choices. I had a different vision of what my project should be, so I showed Mr. Muir an ad in a Woman’s Day magazine for plans to build a grandfather’s clock. “No way could you finish this in one or even two semesters”, he said. But I was persistent, so he took my plans to the Huntington, NY, school board and actually got their approval. And I did it!
Above, the handsome wood clock cabinet that John made in 1972, following plans he wrote away for. The clock still stands in the same spot and keeps perfect time too. He bought the clock mechanism back then at a nearby speciality shop.
And what other activities in HS did you pursue?
Sports-wise, I was mainly a track person; a hurdler and sprint runner. I realized nobody wants to be a pole vaulter, so I did that too. And I absolutely loved my public speaking class. I also wanted to be a lifeguard, so I got certified and spent several summers guarding and teaching swimming, which eventually led to me managing the town pool and winter ice rink.
Were you born in New York?
Like my Dad, I was born in Chicago and moved to New York as a child. Dad's family moved back to Chicago, where he met and married my mom, a nurse. I was the second of three children. He had said if an opportunity came along, he would move back to NY, and it did, and we did.
So you followed in your father’s footsteps?
Somewhat. When I was a youngster, we made trips to NY, and he’d show us NYU, his alma mater, and the nearby area, and I absolutely loved the energy the place had. Around age six, I remember looking up at the Greek revival buildings and saying, “Dad, one day I'm gonna live here.” I loved the architecture. And sure enough, I live not far from that spot. But we had different viewpoints. He liked the greenery of the suburbs. After seeing my small apartment, he quipped- then you open the door and you're on the street. And I said, “Dad, we see the world differently. I open the door, and I'm in the world.”
And what about college?
I only applied to one school—Washington and Lee, in Virginia. My parents were concerned with just one choice, and my not having great SAT scores. I did get in, early admission, which shocked my dad, so much so that he even asked the President on our first visit- Why? "Mr. Risch, we evaluate people on many different things, but quite honestly, we think he's going to do more for us than we're going to do for him."
And did you do more for your Alma Mater?
Well, I was very involved in the Student Recruitment Committee, giving tours and singing the praises of Washington andLee. I had a double major, English and Art, and some of my thesis research on a historic log house in Rockbridge County got published. When I returned for a college night, representing W&L at Huntington HS, I was asked to come substitute teach, despite not having a teaching degree.
And what was that like, teaching there?
I remember students saying, “Wait, you’re supposed to come in and put your feet up on the desk and read the paper. You make us do more than our regular teachers.” And I said to them, "What I've learned is that when we have these sessions, I want to learn from you as well.” That's pretty much how I feel today, whether hosting an industry event at Hafele or working with designers and architects on a project.
So I guess you could say you have been teaching ever since?
Yes, I guess I have been. During my 10 years at Macy’s, I did a lot of training, moving from furniture buyer up to manager of the 6th Floor- fabrics and domestics. Did you know that floor alone would do more $$ sales than some of the branch stores did total!
And you mentioned Steelcase, how did that come about?
After Macy’s, I worked for a furniture manufacturer in New Jersey, as the “merchandise guy” for their leather upholstery department. A little later, someone I met at adinner party who worked at Steelcase said I should apply. My product expertise was chairs, and in 1999, the ergonomic Leap Chair took off, and I did all the presentations and was dubbed the “Leap Expert”.
And Hafele? How did that happen?
Steelecase was downsizing and I was let go. Surprisingly, one night I was taking a friend to dinner, and we passed the old Hafele showroom where my friend, Ed Cohen, whom I met through that New Jersey company, was now the manager. He saw me and waved us in. He happened to be looking for someone for marketing, so in 2004 I started with Hafele and have enjoyed being here ever since. I credit the late Jeannie Bochette, my mentor at Steelecase, for teaching me the importance of being involved in professional organizations like NKBA, and have been so glad that Ed and Hafele realize the value in that too.
Well, like the president of W&L said, We think he's going to do more for us than we're going to do for him. We concur and appreciate all that you and Hafele do for our industry.
BTW, did you ever get to march in that Macy’s parade?
Indeed I did. I was a clown and loved being in the middle of all that excitement, just like running in the NY marathon 4 times. I LOVE NY!
John got his beloved Cooper as a puppy, just before taking the position at Hafele. Cooper was often seen at the showroom, here with a replica "stuffy", a gift from a friend.
Welcome New Members
Ronan Doherty, Loti Kitchens
Danielle Zbodula, AJ Madison
Austin Oxenhirt, K&B Creations
Welcome New Sponsor
Architech Designs
WILL YOU BE THERE?
We’re gearing up for KBIS 2026 — Will you be there?, asks Jeannine Price, incoming Chapter President. Keep an eye out for our upcoming sponsor spotlight, where we’ll share booth locations so you can visit, network, and support the brands that support our chapter.
HOW-TO KBIS
Watch too for an informal upcoming Zoom where first-timers (or those just thinking about it) and more experienced NKBA attendees can join in the conversation. We’ll share tips and suggestions on lodging, meals, and navigating the two big shows. Learn about special events and get leads and links for opportunities to mix with fellow members. Interested in learning more at our How-to KBIS Zoom? Email Maureen at getmklein@gmail.com.
And here’s the lowdown from the KBIS organizers–
The KBIS 2026 Show Is Just Around the Corner
KBIS 2026—the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, is fast approaching! From February 17–19, 2026, the industry will gather at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, once again co-located with the International Builders’ Show (IBS) for Design & Construction Week (DCW).
As North America’s largest kitchen and bath trade event, KBIS brings together the latest products, innovations, and trends from across the industry. Attendees can expect an expansive expo floor filled with hundreds of exhibitors, exciting new product launches, immersive design inspiration, and robust educational programming, including Voices From the Industry (VFTI) and NEXTStage sessions.
Key Details:
Dates: February 17–19, 2026
Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida
Co-Located With: International Builders’ Show (IBS)
Who Attends: Kitchen & bath designers, architects, builders, remodelers, manufacturers, retailers, and industry professionals
What to Expect: New products, design trends, technology showcases, education, and valuable networking opportunities
Registration & Information: For details and registration, visit the official KBIS website at kbis.com.
A Reflection of the Times
Patti Carpenter, Global Trend Ambassador for Maison & Objet, and one of the NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter's main leads for our Skilled Trades Career Days, dazzled the audience with her latest finds from France and beyond. The event, presented on Thursday, November 20th by IFDA NY in partnership with LIXIL Water Experience Center, was beautifully enhanced, as each slide projected on the large wall screen was also reflected on the rippling water-like ceiling above. Many NKBA members attended the event.
Pictured left: Attendees included David Santiago, IFDA NY President; Amiee Milano, LIXIL Leader Client and Customer Experience; Josh Byran, LIXIL Sales Experience Coordinator; Jean-Jacques L' Henaff, LIXIL Leader, Americas, Global Design; Patti Carpenter, Global Trend Ambassador; guest; Chris Agostinelli, LIXIL Sales Manager, and Dondrill Glover, IFDA NY incoming President.
Designer Michelle Slovak and NKBA Newsletter Editor Maureen Klein explore the lower level of the Water Experience, wondering if they will be rained on any minute by the fixtures in the round display.
NKBA’s Board Members Barbara Haberman and Julie Schuster flank Keith Jones, Dacor’s Trade Development Manager.
Intensity, doubled, when mirrored from the giant wall screen onto the ceiling. One of the many slides telling the color and texture stories spotted at the show.
Attention Product Designers and Sponsors!
Enter Now: Modern Luxury Interiors' Best of Design Awards
Modern Luxury Interiors’ Best of Design Awards return to honor the year’s most exceptional new product launches. Submit your standout products across categories, including Kitchen, Bath, Furniture, Lighting, Textiles, Outdoor Living, and more. Winners will be featured in Modern Luxury Interiors Volume 1 (February 2026) and spotlighted across print, digital, and social channels.
We’re thrilled to celebrate one of our distinguished members, Sharon Sherman (above left), Founder of Thyme & Place Design in Wyckoff, N.J. Sharon, whose “Tips From the Trade” blog continues to inspire designers across the industry, has been honored as KBB’s 2025 Person of the Year, selected by Editor Chelsie Butler.
BDNY 2025: The Inspire Awards Winners Have Been Named!
Check out the BDNY winners (Boutique Design NY, a hospitality and lifestyle industry trade fair) of the NKBA Manhattan Chapter Inspire Awards sponsored by aspire design & home magazine! Our judges, pictured below, hit the show floor early on opening day and searched for the best. See the full list of winners in the magazine feature here!
√ THESE OUT!
√ TAKE Four NKBA Design + Business Online Webinars
1. Designing with Nature’s Rhythm: Biophilia Unleashed .1CEU
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
2. What Designers Need To Know About Hiring a Pro Photographer .1CEU
Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
3. Maximize Return w/ AI-Powered Targeted Ads for Kitchen and Bath .1CEU
Thursday, December 11, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
4. Biophilia in the Bathroom .1CEU
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
NOTE: Each seminar provides .1CEU unless otherwise stated and they are free for NKBA members. Click here for more info about the December 2025 webinars and to register.
You’ll be glad you did.
Sculptural Serenity: Hastings Introduces the Duna Tub Collection
Hastings Bath Collection has unveiled the Duna Tub Collection, a beautifully sculptural series inspired by Mediterranean minimalism and modern wellness rituals. Handcrafted in Spain, these resin tubs exemplify quiet luxury with their soft contours, tactile finishes, and spa-like comfort. The collection features two distinct models: the 51-inch Ofuro soaking tub, ideal for compact spaces or deep-immersion bathing, and the 63-inch freestanding tub, a striking centerpiece for larger bath retreats.
Both versions are available in matte white or elegant bi-color finishes, allowing homeowners and designers to personalize a clean, contemporary aesthetic. The Mediterranean influence shines through in the tubs’ organic silhouettes and calming presence, transforming the bath into a restorative sanctuary. With a fusion of craftsmanship, ergonomic design, and mindful simplicity, the Duna Tub Collection reflects Hastings’ commitment to elevating everyday wellness through intentional, artful design.
SKS Redefines Luxury Cooking with the New 36-Inch Pro Induction Range
SKS continues to push the boundaries of culinary innovation with the nationwide launch of its 36-inch Pro Induction Range—an award-winning model that blends professional performance with cutting-edge efficiency. Debuted at KBIS 2025, the range is the first luxury appliance to combine powerful induction cooking, steam-combi oven technology, and ENERGY STAR® certification.
Its standout features include a 7,000-watt dual center induction element—the most powerful in the industry—capable of boiling a quart of water in under a minute. The spacious 6.3-cubic-foot steam-combi oven offers modes such as convection, steam sous vide, and air fry, elevating home cooking with versatility and precision. Smart Knobs™, intuitive touchscreen controls, and cookware compatibility indicators further enhance the experience for modern Technicureans™.
Recognized with a 2025 Red Dot Award, the new SKS range merges power, beauty, and sustainability, giving designers and homeowners a sophisticated, future-forward centerpiece for the modern kitchen.
Native Trails Expands Its Solace Vanity Collection with New Sizes
Native Trails has expanded its beloved Solace Vanity Collection, offering new 36-inch and 60-inch sizes designed to meet the needs of both small baths and spacious retreats. Crafted from solid, FSC-certified oak, the Solace vanity strikes a perfect balance between timeless craftsmanship and modern design. Its transitional aesthetic blends effortlessly with a variety of interiors, while the handcrafted concrete accents introduce a refined, textural contrast.
Functionality shines through thoughtful details such as full-extension, soft-close drawers, a NativeStone® bottom shelf for additional storage, and a built-in U-channel for easy P-trap accommodation.
A low-VOC, water-resistant finish ensures long-lasting durability, even in humid environments. Available in Midnight Oak and Sunrise Oak, each piece pairs beautifully with Native Trails’ signature NativeStone® vanity tops and sinks. With its expanded size options and material artistry, the Solace collection brings a grounded yet elevated look to any bathroom setting.
Thermador Elevates Kitchen Design with Side-by-Side Wall Ovens
Thermador is redefining the modern kitchen with a design approach that goes “beyond the stack.” By specifying Thermador Built-In Wall Ovens in a side-by-side configuration, designers can create a commanding horizontal statement that blends seamlessly into contemporary cabinetry. This layout not only enhances the visual symmetry of the space but also offers significant ergonomic advantages.
Placing the ovens at a customized height creates an accessible, comfortable cooking zone tailored to the homeowner’s needs—no bending or reaching required. It’s a thoughtful integration strategy that combines Thermador’s signature performance with functional luxury.
Whether selecting from the Masterpiece® or Professional Collection, the side-by-side installation empowers designers to maximize both form and function. The result is a cohesive, architectural focal point that elevates the entire kitchen while delivering an intuitive, chef-forward cooking experience.
The Communications Committee seeks contributors for outbound marketing to provide relevant industry news. We'd love you to join our team if you have social media or writing skills. Please contact Communications@nkbamanhattan.org.
The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through the creation of certifications, marketplaces, and networks.
